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What is the number one favorite pet in the UK? If you think the answer is dogs, you are wrong. There are 8.6 million cats and 8.3 million dogs in Britain according to recent figures. But experts predict that there will be more dogs than cats next year as dogs become more and more popular.
Dogs as decorations
We like to spend time with our pets. The Queen is famous for her affection for dogs and is often photographed with them. Nowadays some dog owners are more extreme — a few TV celebrities even take their dogs shopping or to restaurants. Chihuahuas are especially popular as “handbag dogs” because they are so small.
Dog holidays
People are also giving their pets holidays. Many UK hotels and holiday parks now welcome dogs as guests. What about owners who go abroad? They can leave their pets at a dog hotel or dog spa while they are away. Some even provide their dog guests with a TV.
Dogs are for life
The British charity, Dogs Trust, finds homes for thousands of lost and abandoned dogs every year. Their famous slogan “A dog is for life and not just for Christmas” was created in the 1970s to teach people about the responsibility of owning a dog. Dogs Trust told British people not to give dogs as gifts or treat them like toys.
Dogs on TV
Victoria Sitwell is the host of the popular TV programme called “It’s me or the dog”. In the show Victoria helps dog owners with their pets’ bad behaviour. She tries to find solutions to problems such as a Dalmatian who thinks he owns the house and won’t let the family sit on the sofa, dogs that will only eat ice cream and biscuits and even a bulldog who uses the owner’s bed as a toilet.
Fashion for dogs
You can shop online or on the high street for the latest in dog clothes and accessories. Specialist shops sell items such as dog boots, dog fancy dress costumes, dog coats, dog dresses and dog pants.
21. Why Chihuahuas are usually popular as “handbag dogs”?
A. Because they are naughty.
B. Because the owners like to spend time with their pets.
C. Because they are small in size.
D. Because they often photographed by their owners.
22. What would the owners do with their pets while they are away?
A. Give their pets as gifts to others. B. Treat their pets with a TV.
C. Leave their pets at a dog hotel or dog spa. D. Leave their pets alone at home.
23. Where does the passage most probably come from?
A. A scientific website. B. A book about how to get along with pets.
C. An entertainment newspaper. D. A special column (栏目) about pets.
